U.S. retail spending up modestly in August

9/14/2013

WASHINGTON — Americans boosted their spending at retail businesses modestly in August, indicating that economic growth remains sluggish. Consumers bought more cars, furniture, and electronics last month but held back on most other purchases.

Spending at retail businesses rose 0.2 percent last month, the Commerce Department said Friday. It was the smallest gain in four months. But the government said retail spending was stronger in the previous month than first estimated.